Weston-super-Mare manager Marc McGregor has led tributes to former Seagulls footballer Darren Hawkins, who suddenly died aged 33 this week.

The father-of-four was a fan favourite at the Woodspring Stadium in the mid-2000s, joining the Seagulls after graduating from the Bristol City academy.

A minute’s silence in memory of Hawkins was held prior to the Seagulls’ 1-0 win over Whitehawk on Saturday.

The midfielder was well known in South West non-league circles, also turning out for the likes of Bath City, Bishops Sutton and most recently with Shaftesbury Crusade.

Hawkins netted 20 goals in 23 games to lift Crusade to the Bristol Premier Combination Premier One title last season.

Weston boss McGregor told the Mercury ‘it is very sad times’.

He said: “I was fortunate enough to play with him at Weston. Our thoughts are with his family and kids – and the club wishes them all the best.”

A Weston Football Club spokesman added: “It is with sadness that we have learned of the passing of former Seagull Darren Hawkins earlier this week.

“The club and board would like to offer their sincere condolences to Darren’s family and friends at the difficult time.”

Former Weston centre-back Clayton Fortune wrote on social media: “Saddened by the news of an old teammate and friend. Fly high mate. RIP Darren Hawkins.”

Gloucestershire FA said it was ‘shocked and saddened’ to learn of Hawkins ‘untimely’ death.

A spokesman added: “The promising former Bristol City prodigy, a father-of-four who openly spoke of his gambling and alcohol addictions, scored 20 times to help Bishop Sutton to a first-ever Toolstation League Premier Division triumph in 2012-13.

“We wish to pass on our condolences to Darren’s family at this difficult time.”